Migration

Irregular migration on the decline.

In 2024, 29,459 cases of irregular migrants were recorded. This was a significant decrease in the number of cases compared to the previous year (2023: 50,185).

The persons detained across Switzerland were primarily of Syrian (7,464), Afghan (4,123) and Turkish (4,091) nationality.

In 280 cases, the FOCBS reported suspected people smuggling to the relevant cantonal police – the figure for the previous year was 388. In addition, 4,765 irregular migrants were handed back to foreign authorities. This figure is also significantly lower than the previous year (2023: 7,614).

The FOCBS works closely with cantonal and national authorities in the field of migration. Responsibility for analysing the general situation of migration to Switzerland lies principally with the State Secretariat for Migration (SEM).

The FOCBS engages in intensive dialogue with its domestic and foreign partner authorities, particularly the SEM, in order to be able to react to changing situations at an early stage.

Number of cases

 

2022

2023

2024

Unlawful period of stay

52,077

50,185

29,459

Alleged people smuggling

476

388

280
Migration2_web
Migrants who entered Switzerland irregularly at Buchs SG railway station.
https://www.bazg.admin.ch/content/bazg/en/home/the-focbs/figures/migration.html